2014 Kia Sportage Updated With New Styling, Revised Engine

2014 Sportage adds new styling, new tech features

Also adds direct-injection for more power and better mileage

Expected to go on sale this fall; pricing not released

Kia has announced revisions to its compact Sportage crossover for the 2014 model year. The 2014 Kia Sportage gets new equipment, a new engine and revised styling -- all designed to keep the crossover fresh in the wake of increasing competition.

The biggest change is under the hood. That's where Kia added a new direct-injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine to replace last year's less advanced 2.4. The result is an increase of six horsepower (for a total of 182 hp) and 9 lb-ft of torque, for 177 lb-ft overall. The new engine also will provide better gas mileage than today's 21 miles per gallon city/30 mpg hwy, though Kia hasn't revealed updated fuel economy estimates.

But the Sportage's changes aren't limited to its powertrain. The crossover also boasts a revised exterior, which includes a new grille, new wheel designs and LED taillights. Also newly available are xenon headlights and updated fog lights on the upscale Sportage EX model.

Inside, changes aren't as extensive. Rear air vents are now standard on all models, not just higher-level trims. An Infinity sound system is now available, as is an LCD gauge cluster. And the Sportage's optional navigation system is newly compatible with Kia's UVO infotainment technology.

Kia's final change to the 2014 Sportage? No more manual transmission. While a 6-speed stick was standard on last year's LX model, the transmission is no longer offered for 2014. It's likely few will miss the feature, though the Sportage's base price may rise with an automatic now standard across the board.

Kia has not yet announced pricing for the Sportage, which also boasts a 260-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder in its upscale SX trim level. The revised crossover is expected to go on sale this fall. The current Sportage, out since 2011, has seen increasing competition from rivals such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, all of which were redesigned since the Kia debuted.

What it means to you: The 2014 Kia Sportage stays fresh with a few updates for the new model year.

Doug DeMuro
has a wide range of automotive industry experience, from work at a Ferrari dealership to a manager for Porsche North America. A lifelong car enthusiast, Doug's eclectic vehicle purchases include a Porsche 911 Turbo, an E63 AMG wagon, an old Range Rover and a Mercedes Benz G-wagen.